Blog posts provide practical home improvement information for homeowners without the usual heavy-handed sales pitch.

Macedonia, OH (PRWEB) February 25, 2013

Our goal is to make our blog truly informative to our customers and to anyone who visits our website, said Melissa Skinner, Director of Marketing for Great Day Improvements, LLC. Skinner oversees marketing for the companys primary brands Patio Enclosures, Softwall Finishing Systems and Stanek Windows. Of course, we want potential customers to see our products and services, but the point of these posts is to provide useful information in a way that is easy to understand.

The website also includes informational DIY videos. The first is called How to Insulate your Garage Door and features Skinner herself providing a thorough demonstration on how to accomplish this home improvement task.

The first six blog posts that launched with the new website are geared towards lawn maintenance, hardscaping, energy efficiency, DIY considerations and home security:

When to Aerate Your Lawn: This blog post demystifies the confusion about when to aerate your lawn by separating cool from warm weather grasses. The post also includes handy tips for proper aeration.

When to Plant Grass Seed in Your State: This in-depth blog post is chock full of information to help homeowners avoid the most common mistakes and setbacks when planting grass seed. It discusses the differences between grass varieties and what is required to successfully grow grass in each climate zone. Theres also a helpful zonal map and tips on proper watering, weather considerations, how to prepare the soil and germination times.

Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways: This post should be required reading for anyone installing a paved driveway for the first time. It breaks down the differences as well as the pros and cons between choosing an asphalt or concrete driveway. It raises important considerations such as regional climate, maintenance, and the cost of each option. It reminds homeowners to check local regulations before contracting the job. A user-friendly chart that lets you see the differences between asphalt and concrete in regards to cost, durability, weathering, longevity, maintenance, etc. is also included.

Benefits of Low E & Argon Gas in Windows: This post discusses the environmental and cost benefits of opting for Low E and Argon gas multi-pane windows over single pane. It discusses how these windows reduce the passage of cool or warm air, thereby making your home more energy efficient and less costly with regards to utility bills. It also explains how the concept of solar gain affects a windows performance.

DIY Home Renovation Realities: Why it could Pay to Hire a Professional: A realistic, yet comical look at the potential pitfalls awaiting an unprepared DIY enthusiast, this charming post serves up practical advice on how to determine whether a homeowner should attempt a renovation or call in the pros. It drives home the point that its often cheaper (and safer) to hire a pro from the start, especially since many homeowners underestimate how much time will be needed to complete a job and have no idea how to handle unexpected repairs or upgrades that may be required as the job progresses.

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Great Day Improvements Goes Beyond the Expected With New Home Improvement Blog Series

Mark Clement, contractor and co-host of the national home improvement radio show MyFixitUpLife, identifies a variety of newly-developed tips for homeowners looking at 2013 Springtime home improvement projects. From his recent contracting experiences, Clement offers new insights on knowing when its time to replace key products on the home including the roof, windows, entry doors and trim.

Ambler, PA (PRWEB) February 25, 2013

The first thing any homeowner needs to understand is that every element of your homes exterior, from the top of the roof down to the front entry door, will eventually need to be replaced, says Clement, a professional contractor in Pennsylvania. The key is to know when the time is right to invest in new products for your home. This means an ongoing evaluation of your homes current products, researching new product options and contacting professionals for support.

Clement points out that replacing older products with newer, more energy efficient and longer-lasting products is a sound investment for homeowners. We have a 100-year-old home and just replaced the original decaying wood door with a Therma-Tru fiberglass door and trimmed it out with long-lasting PVC millwork from Fypon, says Clement. We also replaced older windows with ENERGY STAR qualified vinyl windows from Simonton Windows and added a new polymer slate roof from DaVinci Roofscapes. These are all man-made products that add more life to our house. Plus, were saving more on our daily energy bills because of the incredible features of these products.

Another important aspect to consider when it does become time to replace key products on the homes exterior is to look at upgrading and taking advantage of newer, more aesthetically pleasing products that are on the market. Thats what we did with the high-performance, low-maintenance products we selected. Our product choices not only make our home more livable right now, but also more add value to the home and make it more sellable when it comes time for us to put the house on the market.

Tips for Evaluating Your Roof

1.Using either a ladder or binoculars from across the street, look for problem areas, such as missing or broken shingles, along with roofing tiles that may be flapping in the wind. These are all indications that a new roof may be in your future.

2.Check the sides of your roof. The southern exposure weathers significantly faster than the other sides of the roof, so make sure to carefully examine this area. Also, shallower pitches weather faster than steeper pitches. So again, if your roof has a shallow pitch --- like a shed dormer --- make certain you can clearly see it to get a true indication of the condition of your roof.

3.If you have a real cedar roof, consider your geographic location. Many West Coast homeowners are proactively replacing these wooden roofs with fire- and impact-resistant polymer shake roofs. Along with helping protect the home from potential wildfires, these roofs oftentimes come with a homeowner insurance discount.

Tips for Assessing Your Windows

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New Insights on Knowing When It’s Time to Replace Products on Your Home

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Tanya Brown is spending hours making hailstones by hand, injecting rubber molds with a seltzer-and-water mixture and freezing them. On Wednesday, the researcher and her colleagues at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety will fire more than 8,000 of the ice balls at up to 76 mph onto a test house inside the institute's facility in Richburg, S.C.

"We really want to try to mimic Mother Nature," says Brown, whose team chased real storms to measure typical hailstone mass, size and hardness for the test, which the institute says is the first of its kind. They plan to study what happens to different kinds of shingles, siding and other building materials under the kind of barrage for which insurance companies don't yet have good models.

Insurers generally have enough experience with hurricanes to predict damage and avoid taking on too much risk. Not so with hailstorms and tornadoes, where costs are increasing. That's why the institute's insurance-company members are funding the research.

Average industry losses for severe thunderstorms in the U.S. have ballooned sevenfold since 1980 and totaled almost $15 billion last year, according to Munich Re, the world's largest reinsurer. The tab for 2011 was a record $25.9 billion.

As storms have occurred earlier in the year, they've tended to strike farther east, where there's greater population density, says Matthew Nielsen, director of product management at Risk Management Solutions, a disaster modeling firm. The spring outbreak of severe storms in 2011 cost property insurer Travelers more than the deadly Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Chief Executive Officer Jay Fishman said.

With storm damage on the rise, insurance companies are taking steps to limit losses. Allstate, the second-largest U.S. home insurer, began two years ago to "age-rate" customers' roofs. In states like Oklahoma, where severe storms blow through with troubling frequency, the company is rolling out policies that take a roof's age and construction material into account when calculating the payout to replace it after storm damage.

"A lot of people would wait until these things happened" and file a claim to get a new roof, says Thomas Wilson, CEO of the Northbrook, Ill., insurer. "That's not a fair deal for anybody, because that cost goes through us back into the system." Policyholders can still pay a premium for full-replacement coverage.

Predicting where hailstorms and tornadoes will strike is tougher than for hurricanes because the historical record is less complete and because they're much smaller and more variable, says Nielsen. That's especially true for tornadoes, whose paths of destruction often appear random, decimating some buildings while sparing others nearby.

Insurance Institute CEO Julie Rochman says this week's simulation is just the start of research she hopes to conduct that could lead to better building standards and lower insurance losses within a few years.

High on the agenda for Brown, the researcher: automate the creation of the hailstones: "Making ice every day for two hours a day is not my most favorite thing."

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Insurers' fake hail helps plan for worst

Soft-Lite Windows is pleased to pay tribute to one of its long-standing dealers, Larmco Windows & Siding, which recently received the 2012 "Super Service Award" from Angie's List, a leading provider of consumer reviews on local service companies.

Streetsboro, OH (PRWEB) February 19, 2013

According to Angie Hicks, Founder of Angie's List, standards for the Super Service Award are quite high and earning this recognition reflects Larmco's dedication to providing great service.

We are so pleased that our customers and Angie's List have recognized Larmco for extraordinary achievement in delivering the best home improvement products with the best service and overall customer satisfaction to Ohioans, said Bill Simon, Chairman of Larmco Windows. In our 50 plus years of business, today is a day to remember. Thank you to all of our loyal Larmco customers!"

We have a great network of dealers and distributors that promote and sell our products, and were particularly proud of our long-standing partnership with Larmco," said Roy Anderson, President of Soft-Lite Windows. "Like all our dealers, Larmco plays a considerable role in Soft-Lite's success, as were manufacturing hundreds of windows for them every week. Their dedication to superior customer service, as evidenced by earning this award, is one of the primary reasons they've maintained such long-standing success and growth, and I commend them for it!

Larmco Windows & Siding is a leader in the vinyl replacement window and vinyl siding industry, with tens of thousands of satisfied customers and over a quarter million windows installed. The company has worked hard to gain and maintain a reputation that is centered on quality products, expert installation and satisfied customer. Larmco proudly serves the Columbus and Cleveland areas of Ohio. For more information, visit http://www.larmco.com.

Soft-Lite is a vinyl replacement window and door manufacturer headquartered in Streetsboro, Ohio. The company is a multiple Crystal Achievement Award winner and is also a recipient of the Friedman Corporation Customer Appreciation Award, the Window & Door Top 100 Manufacturers recognition, and the Door and Window Companies To Watch recognition. For more information, visit http://www.soft-lite.com and http://www.gorell.com.

Melanie Thomas Soft-Lite Windows LLC 330.528.4007 Email Information

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Soft-Lite Windows LLC Recognizes Larmco Windows & Siding for Earning Distinguished Angie's List "Super Service Award ...

In a recent nationwide survey examining local markets and buyer home preferences within those markets, Realtors rated exterior projects among the most valuable home improvements.

In the 2013 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, the agents indicated such projects as siding, window and door replacements can recoup more than 70 percent of their cost at resale.

Realtors expected a steel entry door replacement as the project to return the most money, recouping an estimated 85.6 percent of costs upon resale. The steel entry door replacement is the least expensive project in the report, costing little more than $1,100 on average.

Three types of siding replacement projects ranked in the top 10: fiber cement siding, expected to return 79.3 percent of costs; vinyl siding, expected to return 72.9 percent of costs; and foam backed vinyl, expected to return 71.8 percent of costs. A midrange and upscale garage door replacement were both expected to return more than 75 percent of costs.

According to those surveyed, two interior remodeling projects can recoup substantial value at resale. A minor kitchen remodel, ranked fifth, is expected to return 75.4 percent of costs. Nationally, the average cost for the project is just under $19,000.

The second interior remodeling project ranked eighth in the top 10 and tied with the vinyl siding replacement is the attic bedroom, with an estimated cost recovery of about 72.9 percent. With the addition of a bedroom

"Realtors are the best source for helping homeowners decide what remodeling project brings the best value to their home because they see many homes every year and can provide valuable insight into what types of improvements can make a difference with buyers. They also are knowledgeable about what types of improvement projects are permitted and regulations involved in your particular area," said Carolyn Miller, president of the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors.

The 2013 report, which is produced by Remodeling magazine publisher Hanley Wood, LLC and completed in cooperation with the National Association of Realtors, compares construction costs with resale values for 35 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 81 markets across the country.

To read the full project descriptions and access national and regional project data, visit http://www.costvsvalue.com. "Cost vs. Value" is a registered trademark of Hanley Wood, LLC. Results of the report are also summarized on the national group's consumer website HouseLogic.com, which provides information on dozens of remodeling projects, from kitchens and baths to siding replacements.

Information in this column is presented by the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors at silvar.org. Send questions to rmeily@silvar.org.

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Exterior projects offer big returns

at Allentown's Agri-Plex on Saturday.

Linda Cahill is an avid HGTV watcher. She particularly likes the Property Brothers.

The charming TV duo helps families buy and renovate tired homes. And you simply can't watch "Property Brothers," Cahill mused, if you don't have granite countertops.

She set out to change that shortcoming in her own home Saturday and found a few vendors to choose from at the Eastern Pennsylvania Spring Home Show at Allentown's Agri-Plex. The show brings together companies specializing in custom cabinets, pools and spas and other home products and services.

Linda and John Cahill came looking for ideas to update the 18-year-old brick colonial they built atop a hill in Klecknersville, north of Bath. Perhaps granite countertops, she said. Or a new driveway, he added.

Rick Hauler of Penn Windows, Doors and Siding is used to the kitchen vendors being the belle of the ball. People want a new kitchen or a renovated bathroom they can show off, whereas energy-efficient replacement windows aren't the most glamorous part of home improvement, he said.

While there were signs of the economy's comeback in the people at the show who, like the Cahills, were looking to spend money on renovations, real economic recovery would have drawn crowds to Hauler's display as well, he and his wife, Beth, noted.

After holding off on home improvements for a few years, homeowners are looking to splurge not on practical new windows but on vanity projects, Beth Hauler said.

Back-to-back mild winters were bad for the Haulers' business too, cutting down on the cold drafts that remind homeowners their windows need replacing. More and more, doors have become a larger share of their family-owned business.

"Doors have been very hot," Rick Hauler said.

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Home show vendors say business is slowly rebounding

PELLA, Iowa, Feb. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Designed exclusively for building industry professionals, THE PRO EXPO Presented by Pella 2013 events are just weeks away and promise to help builders, remodelers, contractors and architects "Get ahead. Get noticed. Get recharged."

The theme of this year's events which kickoff in Detroit, Mich., on Feb. 19 reflects the need for building professionals to have a competitive edge that will help them to compete, and excel in today's marketplace.

"Knowledge is power. No other industry event gives you more engaging learning opportunities than THE PRO EXPO," said Pella Corporation Trade Marketing Manager Chris Dana. "Pella, along with our national partners including Thermador and Bosch home appliances and LP Building Products invites building industry professionals to devote one evening to sharpening their skills and zeroing in on their goals to help drive business success in 2013."

THE PRO EXPO Presented by Pella events are half-day exhibitions that bring local professionals together to learn about new, cutting-edge innovations directly from national manufacturers. Participants can take accredited courses throughout the afternoon to earn continuing education credits. Plus, they can join the conversation during a panel discussion with some of the building industry's most influential professionals, and learn lead-generation strategies.

Attendees also will enjoy free food, refreshments, entertainment and the chance to win great prizes.

Events will be held in cities across the U.S. from February through May 2013 including: Feb. 19 in Detroit, Mich.; Feb. 27 in Atlanta, Ga.; Mar. 4 in Jersey City, N.J.; Mar. 13 in Washington, D.C.; Mar. 18 in Raleigh, N.C.; Mar. 26 in Bridgeport, Conn.; Mar. 28 in Philadelphia, Pa.; Apr. 8 in Boston, Mass.; Apr. 17 in Milwaukee, Wis.; Apr. 24 in Minneapolis, Minn.; May 1 in San Francisco, Calif.; May 6 in Phoenix, Ariz.; May 9 in Albuquerque, N.M.; and May 13 in Dallas, Texas.

Click here for event details in each city.

Continuing educationLeading publication representatives will present educational seminars. Pella, national manufacturers and publication representatives will offer continuing education opportunities for architects. During a pre-event opportunity, attendees can learn about manufacturers that offer contractor programs and participation benefits.

Attendees also will have the chance to win thousands of dollars in prizes, including Apple iPad 2, Apple iPad keyboards, Bosch coffeemakers and Oakley sunglasses. One grand prizewinner at each event can select a vacation of their choice from four options: Las Vegas, Nev.; Orlando, Fla.; Charlotte, N.C.; or Breckenridge, Colo.

ExhibitorsThe following companies will exhibit at THE PRO EXPO 2013 events (in alphabetical order): AZEK Building Products, Benjamin Obdyke, Bosch Home Appliances, ClimateMaster, Hansgrohe, Huber Engineered Woods, Lutron Electronics Co., LP Building Products, MasterBrand Cabinets, OSI/Henkel, Pella Corporation, Progressive Foam Technologies, Schluter-Systems, Sherwin Williams, Silestone by Consentino, Thermador, VELUX Group, Vinyl Siding Institute and Wellborn Cabinet.

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'Gain the edge' at The Pro Expo Presented by Pella(SM) events

While many West Bloomington homes celebrate their 100th birthday one group is taking action to keep those houses in good shape. The West Bloomington Revitalization Project is now offering support for home restoration projects. The group received a 7,500 grant from the PNC Foundation. The restoration program is designed to help homeowners improve safety, curb appeal, value, as well as energy efficiency. With PNC's financial support the group plans to work with at least 10 homeowners this year.

WBRP Housing Intern Jennfier Long says "It really is a great opportunity. If someone you know is looking for a porch or window replacement they do not always have the resources to do so. They can get help with the purchasing of materials and we can help supply volunteer labor and things like that."

Eligible projects include window repair and glass replacement, exterior painting, porches, steps and railings, gutter and siding repair, fences and gates, and landscaping.Renovation requiring plumbing and electrical work will not be eligible for grants, and WBRP encourages interested home owners to meet with them and discuss their proposed work prior to application.

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Old Homes in West Bloomington Have Chance at Revitalization

Now is the time most homeowners think of property improvements. Moreover, most homeowners are looking for the highest rate of return on their investment. According to the 2013 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, REALTORS voted exterior projects among the most valuable home improvement ventures.

REALTORS know that curb appeal projects offer great bang for your buck, because a homes exterior is the first thing potential buyers see, says National Association of REALTORS President Gary Thomas. Projects such as siding, window and door replacements can recoup more than 70 percent of their cost at resale. REALTORS know what home features are important to buyers in your area and can provide helpful insights when considering remodeling projects.

REALTORS identified a steel entry door replacement as the home improvement expected to return the most money. In fact, the rate of return is estimated at 85.6 percent of costs recouped at resale. The article information said a steel entry door replacement is the least expensive project in the report at a cost of $1,100 on average.

Exterior replacement projects typically recoup more than 71 percent of costs. The report states, A majority of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally in terms of value recouped are exterior projects.

Siding replacement projects landed in the top 10 and include fiber cement siding (79.3 percent of costs), vinyl siding (72.9 percent of costs), and foam backed vinyl (71.8 percent of costs).

Midrange and upscale garage door replacement both are expected to return more than 75 percent of costs.

Why do you think the exterior is important? When that potential Buyer drives up, the house MUST have what we call curb appeal. That very first image is forever etched in that potential Buyers mind! Therefore, the cover of the book MUST express excitement to the potential Buyer!

Nonetheless, the interior absolutely must make an interesting read. According to the report, two remodeling projects in particular can recoup substantial value at resale. Ranked fifth is a minor kitchen remodel. This remodel expects to return 75.4 percent of costs. The national average cost for a project of this type is just under $19,000.

Number two interior remodeling project, also in the top 10, is the attic bedroom. This project came in at number eight and it tied with a vinyl siding project with 72.9 percent of costs recouped. This project adds a bedroom and bathroom, and has an average cost of just under $48,000. Unbelievably, a home office remodel is estimated to return the least at 44 percent.

Mr. Thomas believes a REALTOR is the very best resource for aiding homeowners in the decision as to what remodeling projects will bring the most upon resale for their local market. Thomas says, Each neighborhood is different, and the desirability and resale value of a particular remodeling project varies depending on where you live. When making a home remodeling decision, resale value is just one factor that homeowners should take into consideration. Consult a Realtor to make sure you are making the best decision.

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Exterior projects most valuable improvements